Newanderthal
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I keep seeing people asking what kind of backpack they should get for their first overnight backpacking trip. Though everyone has their own opinion as to what pack is best, the general consensus is that a beginner should start with a beginner's pack. By that I mean people taking their first overnight trip shouldn't rush out and purchase a $300 Gregory. The first backpacking trip is like a trial run, and if, after a few trips, they find they do not like backpacking, they should have spent less rather than more. If it becomes a regular activity, then more serious money can be spent and nicer gear purchased. However, any gear a person buys should still hold up to the abuse its likely to experience in the first few years, in case the beginner becomes a more active enthusiast.
With that in mind, I've found SEVERAL heavy-medium duty internal frame backpacks that are a perfect size for overnight trips for $150 or less.
JANSPORT KLAMATH 55 $89
At 3300 cui it may be a little on the small side for a beginner, but it should fit fine for anyone hiking in the warmer months when a heavy sleeping bag and thick clothing are being left at home. I haven't used this particular model, but I do have experience with the larger Klamath 85. It's tougher than nails and possibly the most comfortable pack I've ever worn. Also, the Klamath series transfers weight better than some of the more expensive packs I've used. This one weighs only 3.9 lbs, possibly the lightest frame pack you'll find for under $100. If that's too small for you, check out the KATAHDIN 70 for $109.
HIGH SIERRA SENTINEL 65 $99
I've played with a High Sierra pack once, and an old hiking buddy has been using his exclusively for nearly a decade without issue. They're comfortable, adjustable, and roomy. Also, they come with a rain fly to cover the pack with, keeping everything inside dry until the storm is over.
KELTY COYOTE 80 $139
Carrying up to 4800 cui, the pack weighs about 5.5 lbs and disperses the weight quite well. Like the Jansport, it's built to last. This pack can easily hold gear for multi-day trips. My older brother has been using a model almost identical to this one for a decade. It still looks new. A lighter option would be the JANSPORT KLAMATH 75. Just under 4 lbs. and holds 4600 cui.
This is by no means the only packs, and I'm not even saying these are the best, but this selection shows what you should be looking for, inexpensive, durable packs that hold between 3000-4500 cubic inches and have an internal frame for support. Also, weight is an issue since you have to carry the load on a trail. A beginner pack shouldn't weight more than 5.5 lbs. and if you're only going to be on overnight trips, you should look at packs below 4 pounds.
If you want a bigger selection, go to campmor.com and use the filters to narrow down your search and arrange the packs by price.
With that in mind, I've found SEVERAL heavy-medium duty internal frame backpacks that are a perfect size for overnight trips for $150 or less.
JANSPORT KLAMATH 55 $89
At 3300 cui it may be a little on the small side for a beginner, but it should fit fine for anyone hiking in the warmer months when a heavy sleeping bag and thick clothing are being left at home. I haven't used this particular model, but I do have experience with the larger Klamath 85. It's tougher than nails and possibly the most comfortable pack I've ever worn. Also, the Klamath series transfers weight better than some of the more expensive packs I've used. This one weighs only 3.9 lbs, possibly the lightest frame pack you'll find for under $100. If that's too small for you, check out the KATAHDIN 70 for $109.
HIGH SIERRA SENTINEL 65 $99
I've played with a High Sierra pack once, and an old hiking buddy has been using his exclusively for nearly a decade without issue. They're comfortable, adjustable, and roomy. Also, they come with a rain fly to cover the pack with, keeping everything inside dry until the storm is over.
KELTY COYOTE 80 $139
Carrying up to 4800 cui, the pack weighs about 5.5 lbs and disperses the weight quite well. Like the Jansport, it's built to last. This pack can easily hold gear for multi-day trips. My older brother has been using a model almost identical to this one for a decade. It still looks new. A lighter option would be the JANSPORT KLAMATH 75. Just under 4 lbs. and holds 4600 cui.
This is by no means the only packs, and I'm not even saying these are the best, but this selection shows what you should be looking for, inexpensive, durable packs that hold between 3000-4500 cubic inches and have an internal frame for support. Also, weight is an issue since you have to carry the load on a trail. A beginner pack shouldn't weight more than 5.5 lbs. and if you're only going to be on overnight trips, you should look at packs below 4 pounds.
If you want a bigger selection, go to campmor.com and use the filters to narrow down your search and arrange the packs by price.
